When the weather turns chilly, and you’re craving something warm, filling, and comforting, there’s nothing better than a steaming bowl of hearty Bavarian potato soup. This traditional German-inspired soup combines creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and smoky German sausage with fresh herbs and vegetables to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a quick way to nourish your soul, this soup is a must-try.
Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s sure to become one of your favorites!
Why You’ll Love This Bavarian Potato Soup Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and robust flavors, this soup is a warm hug in a bowl.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Every ingredient works together to deliver a bold and rich taste.
- Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, and everything comes together in one pot for easy cleanup.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this soup works for all.
Ingredients for Hearty Bavarian Potato Soup
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Meat | Bacon, diced | 8 oz |
| Fully cooked German sausage, sliced | 8 oz | |
| Produce | Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced | 2 lbs |
| Large carrots, peeled and sliced | 3 | |
| Large stalks celery, chopped | 2 | |
| Leek, thinly sliced | 1 cup | |
| Yellow onion, finely chopped | 1 medium | |
| Garlic, minced | 3 large cloves | |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup | |
| Bay leaves | 2 | |
| Canned Goods | Low-sodium chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Baking & Spices | Morton kosher salt | 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste) |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | |
| Dried marjoram | 2 tsp | |
| Dairy | Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Half & half | 1/4 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create a hearty, flavorful bowl of Bavarian potato soup:
1. Cook the Meats
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook it until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, add the sliced German sausage. Let it brown lightly for 2–3 minutes, then remove it and set it aside with the bacon.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
- Use the rendered bacon fat in the pot to sauté the vegetables. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, and leeks.
- Sauté the veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their flavors.
3. Build the Broth
- Stir in the diced Yukon Gold potatoes. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables, ensuring everything is covered.
- Add the bay leaves, marjoram, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Mash and Add Creaminess
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Use a potato masher to partially mash the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in the half & half, mixing well to add a creamy richness to the soup.
5. Add the Meats Back
- Add the cooked bacon and sausage back into the pot. Stir to combine and let the soup heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Finish and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before ladling the soup into bowls. Pair it with crusty bread or a soft pretzel for an authentic Bavarian experience.
Nutritional Benefits of Bavarian Potato Soup
This hearty soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients to nourish your body:
| Ingredient | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold Potatoes | Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, they provide energy and aid digestion. |
| Carrots and Celery | High in antioxidants and vitamins A and K, which promote eye and bone health. |
| Leeks and Garlic | Offer immune-boosting properties and support heart health. |
| Bacon and Sausage | Add protein and satisfying flavor. |
| Chicken Broth | Contains collagen and minerals for healthy joints and skin |
Tips for Making the Best Bavarian Potato Soup
1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Fresh vegetables and high-quality bacon and sausage make a big difference in the soup’s overall flavor.
2. Adjust the Texture to Your Liking
For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup.
3. Experiment with Herbs
Marjoram adds a classic Bavarian flavor, but you can also try adding a pinch of thyme or dill for a unique twist.
4. Go Vegetarian
To make this soup vegetarian, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon and sausage. You can add smoked paprika or roasted mushrooms for a smoky flavor.
5. Serve It Bavarian-Style
For a truly authentic experience, serve the soup with fresh pretzels or German rye bread.
Why This Soup is a Bavarian Favorite
Bavarian potato soup has been a staple of German cuisine for centuries, loved for its hearty ingredients and bold flavors. The creamy potatoes, smoky meats, and rich broth make it the perfect meal for cold weather or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. This recipe pays homage to the traditional flavors while offering a modern twist with creamy half & half and a variety of fresh vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | ~600 mg |
Note: Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! If you can’t find German sausage, you can use kielbasa, smoked sausage, or even chicken sausage for a slightly lighter option.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze Bavarian potato soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the half & half to avoid curdling. Add the cream when reheating.
4. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor and work well in this recipe.
5. How can I thicken the soup further?
If you want a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water.
6. What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, soft pretzels, or a side salad are perfect accompaniments to this hearty dish.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
This hearty Bavarian potato soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, savory sausage, and fresh herbs come together to create a dish that warms both your heart and your stomach. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply indulging in some self-care, this soup delivers on every level.
So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to a taste of Bavaria. Don’t forget to serve it with a side of crusty bread or a soft pretzel for the full experience. Guten Appetit!
Pro Tip: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor!
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Hearty Bavarian Potato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Warm, hearty, and packed with rich flavors, this hearty Bavarian potato soup brings the best of German comfort food straight to your table. With creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, smoky bacon, savory sausage, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup is perfect for cold days or when you just need a comforting, satisfying meal. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, each bowl is a taste of pure indulgence.
Ingredients
Meat
- 8 oz bacon (diced)
- 8 oz fully cooked German sausage (sliced)
Produce
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 3 large carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 large stalks celery (chopped)
- 1 cup leek (thinly sliced)
- 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 3 large cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
Canned Goods
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Baking & Spices
- 1/2 tsp Morton kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
Dairy
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup half & half
Instructions
1. Cook the Meats:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate.
- Add the sliced German sausage to the same pot, letting it brown lightly for 2–3 minutes. Remove and set it aside with the bacon.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Use the rendered bacon fat to sauté the vegetables. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, and leeks.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma.
3. Build the Broth:
- Stir in the diced Yukon Gold potatoes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged.
- Add the bay leaves, marjoram, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Mash and Add Creaminess:
- Remove the bay leaves. Use a potato masher to partially mash the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in the half & half, mixing thoroughly to create a creamy, rich consistency.
5. Add the Meats Back:
- Add the cooked bacon and sausage back into the pot. Stir to combine and let the soup heat for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Finish and Serve:
Notes
- Make It Vegetarian: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon and sausage. Add roasted mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- Freezing Tips: Freeze the soup without the half & half to prevent curdling. Add the cream when reheating.
- Texture Preferences: Use an immersion blender to create a smoother soup or mash the potatoes more for a thicker consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: German-inspired